EPA and DOT Finalize Fuel Efficiency Standards for Trucks

In terms of emissions and energy use, trucks are the second-largest segment in U.S. transportation.

Aug 17, 2016

EPA and NHTSA have finalized standards for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles that will improve fuel efficiency and cut carbon pollution. The standards will also improve energy security and encourage manufacturing innovation as part of two standards created in response to President Obama's directive in 2014 to develop new standards.

The DOT estimates the final standards will lower CO2 emissions by 1.1 billion metric tons, cut fuel costs by $170 billion, and reduce oil consumption by 2 billion barrels over the lifetime of the vehicles sold under the program.

"The actions we take today on climate change will help lessen the impacts on future generations," said EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy. "This next phase of standards for heavy and medium duty vehicles will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while driving innovation, and will ensure that the United States continues to lead the world in developing fuel efficient technologies through the next decade and beyond."

Heavy-duty trucks make up about 20 percent of greenhouse gas emissions and oil use in the U.S. transportation sector, making them the second-largest segment. Emissions from these trucks are expected to surpass emissions from passenger vehicles by 2030.

The standards will apply to model years 2021-2027 and will result in significant emissions reductions and fuel efficiency improvements.